The Springboks are set for a thrilling return to the field with a historic fixture against the Barbarians in Cape Town on Saturday, 28 June—the first time the two teams will clash on South African soil.
This landmark match will be followed by a packed Incoming Series, featuring back-to-back Tests against Italy in Pretoria (5 July) and Gqeberha (12 July), before wrapping up with a showdown against Georgia in Nelspruit on 19 July.
Bigger Battles Await
While the mid-year Tests offer valuable preparation and exposure for new faces, the true test begins when the Rugby Championship kicks off. The Springboks will then finish the year with high-profile clashes on their traditional end-of-year tour in Europe.
Injury Setbacks: Louw and Malherbe Ruled Out
However, the squad has already been hit with some tough news. Talented loose forward Elrigh Louw will miss the entire 2025 season due to a serious leg injury. Louw’s versatility in covering both No. 8 and blindside flank positions makes this a significant blow.
His absence, though, opens the door for rising stars like Vincent Tshituka, Evan Roos, Juarno Augustus, and Cobus Wiese to stake their claim. The experienced duo of Jasper Wiese and Pieter-Steph du Toit are expected to remain central figures as the Rugby Championship approaches.
In a further setback, Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus has confirmed that Frans Malherbe may also sit out the entire season due to a lingering back injury. This puts added pressure on South Africa’s front-row depth.
Veteran Vincent Koch will anchor the scrum, with Thomas du Toit and Wilco Louw stepping up as key support. Erasmus may also turn to Asenathi Ntlabakanye and Neethling Fouche to gain valuable Test experience in 2025.
The injury to Trevor Nyakane, who is only expected back later in the year, means the versatile Du Toit’s ability to play both loosehead and tighthead could be vital moving forward.
2025 Springbok Squad: A Mix of Experience and Youth
Despite these injuries, the Springboks’ extended squad is packed with seasoned internationals and promising young talent across all positions.
Notable forwards include:
- Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche, RG Snyman, Kwagga Smith, and Marco van Staden,
- Plus up-and-comers like Neethling Fouche, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, and Asenathi Ntlabakanye.
In the backs, the Boks boast a dynamic mix of flair and power, with:
- Cheslin Kolbe, Damian de Allende, Willie le Roux, Handré Pollard, Makazole Mapimpi, and Faf de Klerk,
- Alongside fresh faces like Ethan Hooker, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, and Morne van den Berg.
